A leaked memo from the U.S. Department of State has sparked strong reactions from several Caribbean governments, following reports that the United States plans to impose travel restrictions on 36 countries, four of which are Caribbean nations offering Citizenship by Investment programs.
The memo points to “deficiencies” in document security, data sharing, and visa overstay management. It also criticizes programs that grant citizenship without requiring actual residence in the issuing country.
Saint Lucia Denies Receiving Any Official Communication
Saint Lucia took a diplomatic stance. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre stated that his government has not received any formal communication from the U.S. regarding the reported blacklist.
Pierre emphasized that his recent meeting with the U.S. Secretary of State did not include any discussion of this issue. He added that Saint Lucia’s CBI program is subject to strict due diligence procedures, which prevent any misconduct or misuse.
The Prime Minister also noted that his government is working on new legislation in collaboration with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank to enhance transparency and accountability. He affirmed:
“We are prepared to refine the program to strengthen its global acceptance, as we fully understand the benefits it brings to our country.”
Saint Kitts and Nevis Takes a Balanced Approach
The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis adopted a balanced position, confirming that it has not received any official notification from the U.S. but is monitoring the reports closely and engaging with international partners to assess the situation.
In an official statement, the government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong and respectful relations with Washington, and to protecting its citizens and sustaining the world’s oldest citizenship by investment program, established in 1984.
Dominica Moves to Reassure Citizens and Strengthen Its Program
While Dominica did not immediately comment after the news broke, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit later issued an official statement confirming that the country has not received any formal notice from the U.S. regarding potential restrictions.
He stated that his government is addressing the matter through direct diplomatic channels and is actively seeking clarification from U.S. authorities. He also reassured citizens that previously issued U.S. visas remain valid for travel, study, and work.
Skerrit also announced new reforms to improve the integrity of the program, including a ban on name changes for new CBI recipients and enhanced security screening. These changes are part of a broader regional effort to align CBI programs with international best practices.
Washington Confirms CBI Program Review
U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed in a press briefing that the U.S. government is seriously considering travel restrictions on countries where it cannot “fully trust the integrity of documents or identity verification procedures.”
“Countries must reform their systems and demonstrate that they are worthy of the United States’ trust.”
Bruce clarified that this is not a blanket ban but rather a measure tied to whether the U.S. can verify the identities of individuals applying through CBI programs.
Affected countries have been given a deadline to submit initial action plans and will be granted additional time to make necessary reforms before any restrictions are enforced.
These developments underscore the importance of transparency and compliance in all citizenship by investment programs. With over 24 years of experience, we at Respect Services remain fully committed to offering legal, reliable, and government-approved solutions that align with international standards, ensuring a secure and stable future for our clients around the world.